I would like to know how high the Lift Buddy can lift. Most of the toughest tasks (for example, in my garage) require a reach of about eight feet. If the Lift Buddy can do that, they've got a customer.

TI's gas sensing platform is another interesting one. Gas sensing systems are a growing market for the home. Emission testing stations can also use them for measuring exhaust gases. On the inside of the vehicle, there could also be a growing market in alcohol (breathalyzer) sensing, as well as carbon monoxide sensing. I've always wondered when someone would develop a CO sensor for inside the car. Anyone who's ever driven an old beater knows the importance of that.

Reminds me of a funny story, Charles. When I was a kid, I interviewed my neighbor who happened to be an engineer for Texas Instruments for a school assignment. He told me that when the transistor first came out - they said it was just a fad...

I agree Ann - after reading your post, I could hardly wait to see the Lift Buddy. I have had a similar prototype in the works for years that we call the "Saddle-Jack." Being a horsewoman, I have seen a need for something that would help folks who are prone to back problems to be able to saddle their horses by themselves. We have the two wheeler but are still in the brainstorming stage for making it work in a cost-effective manner. That Lift Buddy is a great idea for lots of applications!

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